39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.99 percent of residents in 39567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Health System with a distance of 0.95 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39567

The Mississippi Gulf Coast, particularly the city of Pascagoula in ZIP code 39567, presents a unique landscape for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This assessment, the "Alzheimer's Score," considers the critical element of transportation and healthcare access, vital for maintaining quality of life and ensuring proper care for those affected by this debilitating illness. A move to Pascagoula, while offering coastal charm, necessitates a thorough examination of these logistical considerations.

The primary concern for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers is the ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably. This involves assessing the ease of transportation, considering both personal vehicle options and alternative modes of travel. The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, weighs these factors to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents a mixed bag in Pascagoula. The primary artery is **U.S. Highway 90**, which runs east-west, connecting Pascagoula to neighboring towns like Moss Point and Gautier. While generally well-maintained, traffic can be a concern, especially during peak hours and in the event of accidents. The **Interstate 10** provides a faster route to larger medical centers in Mobile, Alabama, but adds distance and potential for anxiety related to highway driving.

Local roads, such as **Ingalls Avenue** and **Market Street**, are crucial for navigating within Pascagoula. These streets are often subject to congestion, particularly near commercial areas and schools. Navigating these roads requires a driver with good cognitive function and awareness, a factor that becomes increasingly challenging for those in the early stages of Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score considers the potential for disorientation and the increased risk of accidents associated with this.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, is limited in this area. The **Jackson County Transit System** provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are less extensive than in larger metropolitan areas. The availability of wheelchair-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for those with mobility issues, a common complication of Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score acknowledges the limitations of public transit, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments who may find the schedules and routes difficult to manage.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Pascagoula, providing a potentially convenient option for accessing healthcare. However, the reliability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Alzheimer's Score takes into account the potential for delays and the need for caregivers to be readily available to assist with booking and coordinating rides. The ability of drivers to provide assistance and understand the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments is also a critical factor.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local providers may offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the importance of researching and securing these services in advance, as they can be essential for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transportation.

Healthcare access in Pascagoula is centered around the **Singing River Health System**, which operates a hospital and several clinics in the area. While this provides a local option for many healthcare needs, specialized care for Alzheimer's disease may require travel to larger medical centers in Mobile or New Orleans. The Alzheimer's Score considers the impact of these travel requirements on both the patient and the caregiver.

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care, including memory care units, geriatric specialists, and support groups, is another critical element. The Alzheimer's Score assesses the proximity of these resources and the ease of access, recognizing the importance of a comprehensive support system for both the patient and their family. The integration of these services is a significant factor in the overall quality of life.

Moving to Pascagoula, while offering a coastal lifestyle, demands a thorough assessment of these transportation and healthcare access factors. The Alzheimer's Score aims to provide a realistic evaluation, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure and healthcare system. This information empowers families to make informed decisions about their loved one's care and well-being.

The caregiver's role is paramount. The Alzheimer's Score recognizes the immense burden placed on caregivers, including the need to manage transportation, coordinate appointments, and provide emotional support. The availability of respite care and caregiver support services is therefore a crucial element in the overall assessment.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the potential for environmental factors to impact transportation and healthcare access. Hurricanes and other severe weather events are a recurring concern on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The ability to evacuate safely and maintain access to healthcare during emergencies is a critical consideration.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 39567 reveals a complex landscape. While Pascagoula offers local healthcare options and the potential for ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic congestion, and the need for specialized care require careful consideration. A move to Pascagoula necessitates a proactive approach to planning transportation and healthcare access, ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's disease can maintain their quality of life and receive the care they need. This assessment, therefore, serves as a guide for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's, empowering them to make informed decisions and create a supportive environment for their loved ones. The integration of these factors is vital for successful healthcare access.